Walton Institute Launches €4 Million Project to Train Quantum Experts

The Walton Institute at South East Technological University (SETU) has been awarded a significant €4 million grant to lead a groundbreaking project known as Questing. This initiative, part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), aims to develop the next generation of experts in the quantum internet field. The project unites nine prominent European universities and 13 key industry partners to tackle the urgent technological challenges associated with quantum networks.

Questing stands out as the first doctoral network dedicated to comprehensively addressing the lifecycle of distributed quantum networks. Over the next few years, the project will train 15 fully-funded PhD candidates, referred to as ‘Q-System Innovators.’ These specialists will possess unique interdisciplinary skills that encompass quantum technology, communications, computing, and the social sciences.

With the potential to transform secure communications and distributed computing, quantum networks highlight a critical skills gap in Europe. To effectively design, manage, and operate these systems on a large scale, a well-trained workforce is essential. The Questing initiative aims to equip Europe with the expertise needed to excel in the development of the Quantum Internet, thus enhancing the continent’s competitive position in this rapidly evolving field.

Building a Comprehensive Doctoral Curriculum

The Questing project will implement a standardized doctoral curriculum that aspires to become the European benchmark for training in quantum network systems. Dr Indrakshi Dey, the Principal Investigator of Questing at Walton Institute, emphasized the project’s ambition: “We are not just offering 15 PhD positions. We are inviting exceptional minds to join an elite, interdisciplinary team backed by industry leaders and world-class infrastructure.”

This initiative represents a substantial advancement for Ireland’s standing in quantum research. As the coordinating institution, Walton Institute will oversee the entire consortium, enhancing its international profile and attracting top doctoral talent to the south-east region of Ireland. The institute’s extensive experience in managing large-scale EU projects positions it well for this critical role.

Dr Deirdre Kilbane, Director of Research at Walton Institute, expressed enthusiasm about the Questing project. “We are expanding on our existing quantum expertise with this announcement,” she stated. “Our team of researchers will be leaders in theoretical modeling and optimization of advanced quantum networks which will benefit society in untold ways.”

Collaboration with Leading Institutions

The Questing consortium includes notable partners such as Trinity College Dublin and the University of Galway’s Irish Centre for High-End Computing. Furthermore, industry collaboration involves prominent organizations like Airbus Defence and Space, British Telecommunications, Telecom Italia, and the Austrian Institute of Technology. This partnership highlights the project’s commitment to bridging academia and industry, ensuring that innovations in quantum technology translate effectively into real-world applications.

As the Questing initiative unfolds, it promises to significantly impact the development of quantum technology in Europe, addressing a vital need for skilled professionals in this cutting-edge field. With a dedicated focus on training and collaboration, the project aims to position Europe at the forefront of the Quantum Internet revolution, paving the way for advancements that could reshape communication and computing as we know it.